2001 Xterra Xploration Vhicle

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Observer

I picked up a 2001 Nissan Xterra SE and thought I'd share my build that is starting this winter. I'm going to stiffen the suspension up a bit to compensate for gear and hauling a dirt bike on the receiver. I'm also going to set it up for week-long, self-sufficient, comfortable camping. At this point I'd like to try and set it up for sleeping inside the rig and not have to pull the Kamparoo Cub (awesome little trailer BTW) for more technical trails. My goal is to keep the weight and complexity to a minimum.

I'm surprised with how many aftermarket parts are available for these rigs! I want it ready for the spring, so don't have a ton of time.

FUTURE MODS if I like the rig after this season and my house remodeling project is completed:
HD Torsion Bars
Belly armor
Locker(s)
Sliders
Bumpers and winch
Rear bumper

BACKCOUNTRY CAMPING ENHANCEMENTS
Storage shelf/bed - must be foldable or in sections to allow passenger seat use by 85 pound mutt
Water Storage - 10 gallons or so
Hot Water Shower - Probably a Zodi portable unit - or will continue to use NEMO Helio Shower (nice little piece of kit)
Window Screens - I'll likely sew up some screens with magnets for exterior mounting (i just did a search and found Skeeter Beaters!)
Auxillary power - Likely a portable jumper battery
Awning
Refillable Propane Tank - ~5 lb
Camp Kitchen - Some sort of pull out chuck with fold-out table
Not sure about cooler - i tend to do one pot meals on long trips and may forego the big cooler/freezer fridge
Roof tent if I my lady does not like the interior bed?

Stuff I already have:
30 years of collecting camping and backpacking gear.

Observer

Proclip and RAM Mount. Normally I have to mount the RAM ball directly to the dash or fabricate some sort of bracket, so this was a nice and simple option. It feels sturdy enough to take some serious bumps.

Observer

And so it begins:
235/85R16 BFG AT KO2
No lift
Those tires are stuffed in there! There was a little rubbing up front so we removed the front mud gaurds. Which was fine because I was already planning to install flexible mud flaps. And yes, the step will be removed soon.

Replacing mud flaps with something flexible. Front done first.
No rubbing up front with these installed! I'm still doing the lift.

Changed the oil today as well. What a cute little oil filter!!! I happened to have a filter socket from a long gone motorcycle that fit.

Observer

Thanks! I read your build and appreciate the inspiration. I lived in MI for a few years (Spartan alumni) and love to explore the UP and Keweenaw. I will use this opportunity to say congrats on the new arrival and encourage you to keep your awesome silver Xterra!

Subaru Ambassador

Thanks! I read your build and appreciate the inspiration. I lived in MI for a few years (Spartan alumni) and love to explore the UP and Keweenaw. I will use this opportunity to say congrats on the new arrival and encourage you to keep your awesome silver Xterra!

Observer

No need/use for the rear sway bar. Just chuck it. Xterra pulls just fine without it. I bent an axle on a tandem trailer due to the weight of all the firewood on it. Xterra still tracked nice going up and down hills plus curves @55-60mph. All the rear sway bar is good for is killing shocks mentioned earlier if you like that kind of thing and lack of articulation. The front sway you will want to keep connected while on the street though.